CuencaUndoubtedly Ecuador's most beautiful city and designated by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1999. Encompassed by fertile valleys, this colonial town is ideal for exploring on foot. Narrow cobbled streets, quiet plazas, 19th century architecture and domed churches make it a charming step back in time. The nearby Inca ruins of Ingapirca are the largest in Ecuador and the most intricate and impressive. Featuring a sun temple, believed to have had religious and ceremonial purposes, and some of the Inca's finest stonework including trapezoidal niches and doorways that are hallmarks of Inca construction. The nearby El Cajas National Park is said to resemble parts of Scotland and has great scope for outdoor activities such as walking and hiking, making the Southern Sierra an unmissable place. TO SEE AND DO IN CUENCAThe town and surrounding area receives few visitors, making it a peaceful retreat. Below are some ideas on what you can see and do, though we can tailor any itinerary to your interests. Cuenca. The town has numerous attractions, though its highlights include; El Sagrario Cathedral, built in 1885 with magnificent blue domes, the church of El Carmen with its flower market set up in front, the churches of; San Blas, San Francisco, and Santa Domingo. The colourful daily market in Plaza Rotary where pottery, clothes and guinea pigs are all on sale and from the Turi hill you have superb views overlooking the city. The city also contains a wide range of museums. Ingapirca. Ecuador's most important and impressive Inca ruins. Situated at 3,230m and built of fine Inca masonry, they contain an Inca chair, which appears like a throne carved into the rock itself. There are water channels throughout implying this was a permanent settlement in its time.Cajas National Park El Cajas National Park. Encompassing 28,000 hectares and over 240 lakes, makes it an ideal area for walking. Situated at a height of between 3,500m and 4,400m, and consisting of paramo vegetation, such as lupin and fern, it is home to an array of flora and the Andean condor. Walks can last from several hours to 3 days depending on your interests.
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